Magic beats Cavaliers 121-83 as Banchero nets 31 points

Paolo Banchero put on a dazzling display, notching 31 points and grabbing 14 rebounds to propel the Orlando Magic to 121-83 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference first-round series.

Despite trailing 2-1 in the best-of-seven series, the fifth-seeded Magic demonstrated they have what it takes to battle for their spot in the next round, with Game 4 slated for Saturday afternoon in Orlando.

Paolo Banchero was ridiculous tonight. 31 points, 14 rebounds, and 5 assists. Also had no turnovers. This moment summed up his night for me: Weaponizes the threat of his scoring to create an open shot for his teammate. In total control of the game.

The Orlando Magic have life. pic.twitter.com/5JotHrl1x3

— Kevin O’Connor (@KevinOConnorNBA) April 26, 2024

Banchero sank four 3-pointers and dominated the offensive glass with seven rebounds, igniting the Magic’s offensive onslaught.

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Jalen Suggs contributed 24 points on an efficient 9-of-11 shooting performance, including 3-of-5 from beyond the arc, while Franz Wagner added 16 points, eight assists, and five rebounds to complement Orlando’s commanding victory.

The third quarter proved decisive as the Magic exploded for 35 of their 51 points, seizing a commanding 96-61 lead and effectively putting the game out of reach. This offensive outburst marked a stark contrast to their previous two outings, where Orlando struggled to muster just 83 and 86 points, respectively.

Orlando’s offensive efficiency was on full display, shooting an impressive 51.1 percent from the field and dominating the boards with a 51-32 rebounding advantage while committing just eight turnovers.

Despite a valiant effort from Cleveland, including 15 points and eight rebounds from Jarrett Allen, and 15 points off the bench from Caris LeVert, the Cavaliers faltered, shooting a paltry 23.5 percent (8 of 34) from beyond the arc.

Cleveland briefly held a 21-18 lead in the first quarter before Orlando closed out the period with a decisive 13-0 run. The Magic continued to build on their lead, extending it to 21 points at 55-34 in the second quarter.

Orlando’s dominance continued in the third quarter, as they outscored the Cavaliers 35-16, effectively putting the game out of reach and securing a commanding victory to keep their playoff hopes alive.